Magnetism and magnetic materials
1 mark · EasyExplain why steel is used for making permanent magnets rather than iron.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
Steel is magnetically hard, so it keeps its magnetism.
Also accept: Steel is magnetically hard and retains its magnetisation, but iron loses it easily.
Common mistakes: Iron is stronger than steel.
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · Correctly refers to steel being magnetically hard or retaining magnetism.
Worked solution
Steel is magnetically hard and does not lose its magnetism easily, so is used for permanent magnets.